Ashura ceremonies intertwine faith and support for state in Iran

In Iran, state-backed Ashura ceremonies, observed during the Islamic month of Muharram, intertwine religious mourning with political messaging. These events commemorate the martyrdom of Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad. The Iranian state draws parallels between Hussein's historical uprising against unjust rule and the sacrifices of contemporary leaders, particularly those killed by the US and Israel. Figures like Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Hezbollah's Hassan Nasrallah are presented as martyrs in the mold of Imam Hussein. Khamenei, who died in February, is referred to by state media as "seyyed ol-shohada," the most exalted of martyrs, and is scheduled for burial in Mashhad during Muharram.

Shiite Muslims worldwide observed Ashoura, a holy day commemorating the 7th-century martyrdom of Imam Hussein. This year's observance holds particular significance following months of war in Iran and Lebanon, regions with large Shiite populations. In Iran, the war resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with his funeral procession imminent. The conflict also impacted Lebanon, where Hezbollah engaged in fighting with Israeli troops, leading to widespread damage in Shiite areas. Mourning rituals, including chest-beating and elegies, were observed in both countries, with leaders drawing parallels between Imam Hussein's resistance against oppression and current struggles. In Pakistan, security was heightened for the Shiite minority due to concerns of militant attacks.